Nigerian Telecom Subscribers Seek NIN-SIM Linkage Extension
The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has called for a two-week extension of the National Identification Number (NIN) and Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) linkage deadline. This request comes as telecom operators prepare to disconnect unlinked lines after the current September 14, 2024 cutoff.
NATCOMS President Deolu Ogunbanjo highlighted ongoing issues with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) portal. The system’s inability to handle high upload volumes has caused delays for both telecom companies and subscribers. Ogunbanjo urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to push the deadline to September 30, allowing NIMC to improve its portal capacity.
The NCC reported significant progress in August, with over 153 million SIMs successfully linked to NINs, representing a 96% compliance rate. However, based on the 219 million active mobile lines reported in March 2024, approximately 66 million lines risk disconnection.
This directive, first announced in December 2020, has seen multiple extensions. If approved, this would mark the NCC’s fifth extension in 2024 alone
The situation remains tense, with previous disconnections in July 2024 leading to customer outrage and temporary closure of MTN offices. As the deadline approaches, subscribers and telecom operators alike await the NCC’s final decision on this critical issue affecting millions of Nigerian mobile users.
